Lymph is a fluid substance that transports infection-fighting cells throughout the body. Lymphatic drainage, or manual lymph drainage, is a method of enhancing lymph flow in the body, reducing inflammation and swelling, thus cleaning out toxins via facial massage. Lymphatic drainage can be done as part of a rejuvenating spa treatment or as a post-surgery healing treatment.

What is a Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

A lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle and light pressure massage treatment designed to increase lymph flow and reduce toxins in the body. Lymphatic drainage is good for anyone looking to increase immune function and/or looking to improve the appearance of their skin and has many positive effects on the body, such as:

• Stress Reduction – The soft, gentle movements of are incredibly relaxing. Also, the increase in lymph flow eases the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body handle stress.
• Beauty Benefits – Lymphatic drainage has been known to reduce the appearance of cellulite and to promote the growth of collagen, making skin appear younger and healthier.
• Post-Injury and Post-Surgery Healing: Lymph is full of protein and white-blood cells that are key to the way the body heals itself. Lymphatic drainage massages help promote circulation of lymph throughout the body. If you’ve suffered a recent injury, it can help speed up the healing process.
• Pre-Surgery: If performed two weeks prior to any surgery, it will help clear the body of toxins and stimulate the immune system, giving you a healing advantage even before you are on the table.

Lymphatic Drainage facials focus on increasing the lymph flow in the face and neck. Lymphatic drainage facials have many rejuvenating and beautifying effects on the face. In fact, many celebrities will get lymphatic drainage facials before big public appearances and awards shows simply because of the beauty benefits, such as:

• Reduced puffiness and increased circulation – which results in a healthy looking glow
• After lymphatic drainage, face acne is known to reduce and even disappear
• If you have bags under your eyes, it will help reduce the swelling and heal the discoloration by promoting healthy cell activity.

How Lymphatic Drainage Works

The practitioner will use a series of calculated movements along  your skin with light pressure. The motions are performed in directions that specifically follow the structure of the lymphatic system, allowing the lymph to drain and flow in the right direction for optimum results.

Whether on the face or whole body, a lymphatic drainage should be performed by a trained professional. This service is available part of a spa treatment and usually takes place in a warm room to stimulate circulation.